Flea Market has old, new and crafted
& MIAs
Helping to ‘Bag Hunger’
By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent
Every Sunday, except the first Sunday of the month, the Belleville Flea Market features a variety of vendors.
The market is also known as Rain or Shines Markets and it is held at Belleville High School from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with free admission and free parking. Vendors are both indoors and outdoors.
Nick Petito of Belleville has been organizing the flea market for the past year.
“I’ve been having flea markets and garage sales since I was 9,” Petito said.
Petito is also the founder of Paisan Con—a convention celebrating ItalianAmerican Heritage and Pop Culture. At Petito’s table, he sells sports cards, and pop culture memorabilia.
Karl Fearon of Belleville is 90-yearsold and was one of the shoppers. He used to own a store on Washington Avenue in the 1980s, selling baseball cards and comic books.
Adriana Barreto of Weehawken has an Amazon online business selling winter hats for women and men, ponchos, and scarves. She’s had her business for 15 years.
“There are different styles,” she said. “Everyone has different tastes.”
Christine Buccarato of Carlstadt was selling new personal care items, toys, and clothes.
Natalia Fernandes and Sophia Silva, of Belleville, are a mother-daughter team who make crafts on the weekends. They were selling handmade bags, keychains, and scrunchies.
“We just started a few months ago,” said Fernandes. They had a variety of colors and designs.
Teresa Davis of Belleville calls her business Teresa’s Crochet Comfort. She’s been crocheting all her life. “I started very young,” she said. She was selling pots, scarves, and everything for babies including blankets.
Eileen Sims of Jersey City has a Poshmark store online. She was selling
Nick Petito, who organizes the flea market, with some Funko Pop! collectible vinyl figurines he sells at the market.
gloves, hats, shoes, and wallets.
Elias is an 8-year-old entrepreneur from Paterson. He was selling Elias Lemonade. He started his business back in August after seeing other kids selling lemonade on YouTube. He also had strawberry popcorn and banana pudding—all homemade.
Leticia McLeod of Staten Island was
selling crochet items – hats, gloves, blankets, headbands, and wine bottle holders.
She got the inspiration watching a friend get started and has been crocheting for a long time.
Nella Toala of West Orange was selling clothes, puzzles, purses—all second hand items.
Matthew De Fede
By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta
Rain or Shine Market offers hand crafted items and collectables
Tables can be reserved for $30. For more information, contact Rainorshinemarkets@email.com
Follow Rain or Shine Markets on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/p/Rain-Or-Shine-Markets-61566138486249/ or visit their website at: https://rainorshinemarkets.com/ (Continued from Page 1)
By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta
At the Flea Market, from left going clockwise, are Adriana Barreto selling winter clothing items for men and women; Sophia Silva and Natalia Fernandes--a mother/daughter team who make crafts on the weekends; Nella Toala selling second hand items; and Christine Buccarato selling personal care items, toys, and clothes.
A group photo of the people honored by the County Commission. From left, Commissioner President Carlos Pomares, Officers of the NJ Grand Lodge of the OSDIA, Councilwoman Diana Guardabasco, visiting guests from Italian law enforcement, Lucia and Laya Di lura (front) owners of Just Like Nonna's, Commissioner Leonard Luciano and Anthony Aulita.
County celebrates Italian heritage and honors councilwoman
A Belleville councilwoman and the Nutley-Belleville Columbus Day Parade were honored in October by the Essex County Board of County Commissioners at their annual Italian Heritage Month celebration.
The event has been held annually for more than 30 years to celebrate the accomplishments of men and women of Italian heritage everywhere, and honor outstanding Essex County citizens for their unique contributions and character.
This year, the Board recognized Belleville Councilwoman Diana Guardabasco, Just Like Nonna’s Italian deli and bakery in Orange, Essex County Sheriff’s Officer Anthony Aulita of North Caldwell, and the New Jersey Grand Lodge of the Order of Sons and Daughters of Italy in America. As is tradition, the Board also recognized the Nutley-Belleville Columbus Day Parade and their 2025 honorees for their longstanding support of Italian heritage and culture.
“Today, we celebrate Italian heritage, culture, and the contributions of some of our finest Essex County residents of Italian background,” said Commissioner Brendan W. Gill.
Musical entertainment was provided by Dylan Wyka, and opening and closing prayers were offered by the Very Rev. Thomas Nicastro, pastor of St. Mary’s Church in Nutley. Honorees received commendations and plaques from the Board, and certificates of recognition from Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, Congresswoman LaMonica McIver, and State Sen. Britnee Timberlake.
Guardabasco is the child of Italian parents that came to the U.S. from Italy in the 1930s. She is the mother of two children, and a grandmother to one
granddaughter. She has worked for the Belleville Board of Education for 18 years, and is an active member of UNICO. For more than 25 years, she has dedicated her time to youth recreation sports, serving on various committees, and continues to serve on the Belleville Little League board.
In addition, she has been a member of the executive Home and School boards for 25 years. Two years ago, she was elected to the Belleville Township Council, where she continues to serve her community.
As a councilwoman and a devoted lifelong resident of Belleville, Guardabasco brings a deep-rooted commitment to her community. Having graduated from Belleville High School in 1982 and residing in Belleville’s Fourth Ward for more than two decades, , Guardabasco's intimate understanding of her community’s needs is unparalleled.
Married to Joe Guardabasco, a respected coach in Belleville for a quarter-century, and a proud parent of two BHS graduates along with a cherished granddaughter, family and community are at the core of her values.
With more than 16 years of service within the Belleville School District, Guardabasco's professional career underscores her unwavering dedication to enhancing the lives and opportunities of Belleville residents.
As president of the Belleville Jr. Bucs and Belleville High School Softball Parents, she has championed the development and success of young athletes. Her involvement in organizations like the Belleville Varsity Club, Belleville Athletic Council, and as a current member of Belleville Little League Executive Board for the past 12 years further illustrates her dedication to promoting a healthy
See COLUMBUS, Page 6
and missing-in-action (MIA).
A watchfire for POWs and MIAs
By Russell “Rusty” Myers III Sons of American Legion
The Sons of the American Legion haven’t forgotten.
They recently participated in the 35th Annual POW/MIA Watchfire, run by the Sons of American Legion Detachment of New Jersey in Seaside Heights.
The event honors New Jersey’s Prisoners of War (POW’s) and Missing-in-action (MIA) serviceman throughout American history. It is held each year on the weekend of POW/MIA Recognition Day, which is always the third Friday of September.
It starts at 7 p.m. with ceremonies and speeches, followed by dinner and the reading of New Jersey’s missing. The Watchfire continues for 12 hours, until its conclusion at 7 a.m. the next day. Throughout the overnight, a huge bonfire on the bay-side of Seaside Heights is continuously fed – representing a light being shined to help those POW’s and MIA’s find their way home.
It is a night focused on remembering – honoring the service of the over 1,000 soldiers, sailors, Marines, and airman who since World War II never made it home. The numbers of unaccounted-for personnel are staggering, currently at 83,000 nationally since the First World War. The Detachment’s Watchfire is one small way for the state and country to pay tribute in memorium to their service and sacrifice.
“May the Watchfire only grow better and stronger,” said Past National Vice Commander Tom Marsden. “As it reminds America to never forget and bring them home.”
After an opening ceremony which included an explanation of the POW/MIA Missing-Man Table, the POW Flag, poems, and readings, veterans from throughout the state read the names of New Jersey's missing, noting their branch of service. For some, it even has a heavier impact as they knew or served with names on that roll.
With hundreds of pallets donated by a local company, in a pit on the beach lined with a donated “burn box,” the fire reached 15 feet tall all night, being visible by the entire Barnegat Bay area. The Watchfire, though, has not always been held in Seaside on the water – it began in 1990 at Garret Mountain outside Paterson.
The fire has always been stoked by Sons and volunteers throughout the night, who stand vigil in memory of the missing.
The event is unique – not being held anywhere else in the national organization –and was attended this year by the newly elected Sons of The American Legion National Commander, William “Bill” Clancy III on his official visit to The Garden State. National Commander Clancy participated in feeding the fire as well, tossing pallets into the bonfire.
At 7 a.m. the next morning, those who stayed up all night along with others rallied again to end the vigil with a closing ceremony and prayer. The hope is that with this POW/MIA Watchfire, the Detachment of New Jersey brings awareness to the fact that so many gave their all in service to their country – and never made it home.
“The Watchfire to me is a very somber occasion”, noted Watchfire Chairman Rich Hodum. “It is a way to keep the public apprised of the POW/MIAs that are still unaccounted for and for the country to not give up hope that someday they will all be returned.”
Photo Courtesy By Rusty Myers III
Sons of the American Legion from Belleville participated in the POW/MIA Watchfire in Seaside Heights. The event honors New Jersey’s prisoners of war (POW’s)
Photo Courtesy of Essex County
HELPING OTHERS — The Belleville Police Department participated in ShopRite’s Help Bag Hunger Campaign. Officers took time out of their day to bag groceries in an effort to raise awareness. Shoppers donated money, which will go to help local food banks through ShopRite’s Partners in Caring. Partners In Caring is a year-round, community-based, hunger-fighting initiative that works with more than 50 food industry manufacturers to provide more than $3 million annually to qualified charitable agencies. Belleville Police Department Officer Alyse Muraglia was the department’s September 2025 Officer of the Month.
Photo Courtesy BPD
The dignitaries for the St. Patrick’s Day parade are, from left, Nutley Irish American President Deidre Hollywood, Grand Marshal Steve Blank, Deputy Grand Marshal Noel Lenahan, Firefighter of the Year Brandon Griffitt, Member of the Year Katherine Bennett and Parade Queen Victoria Kealy.
Grand marshal, dignitaries for St. Patrick’s Day Parade named
NUTLEY — The planning has begun for the 2026 Nutley St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
The 2026 parade dignitaries were announced this month and they were formally introduced at the annual ShamrockFest on Saturday, Oct. 18 at the Nutley Parks & Recreation facility on Park Avenue. Shamrockfest included a meal of corned beef and cabbage, chicken, pasta, salad and dessert.
The parade will be held on Saturday, March 7 led by the following parade dignitaries:
• Grand Marshal – Steve Blank
• Deputy Grand Marshal –Noel Lenahan
• Firefighter of the Year – Brandon Griffitt, Nutley Fire Department
• Member of the Year – Katherine Bennett
• Parade Queen – Victoria Kealy
Photo Courtesy of Colleen Nielsen
Columbus Day Parade honorees are recognized at Essex County celebration
(Continued from Page 3)
and active lifestyle among Belleville's youth.
The Nutley-Belleville Columbus Day Parade & Italian Heritage Committee was born out of a community spirit that encompassed the local Italian Americans living in Nutley and Belleville. Back in the early 1980's the parade committee was founded by Belleville resident Vincent
"Jimmy" Donadia and Nutley resident John V. Kelly.
The parade’s 2025 honorees include: Grand Marshal – Dr. Frank A. Cocchiola Jr.; Lifetime Achievement – Steven James Rovell; Italian Heritage Award – Andrea Lyn Cammarato-Van Besnchoten; Italian Business Leader of the Year – Louie Ritacco; Nutley Italian Woman of the Year –Julie Alongi Palma and Patricia Badala-
CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT
EXPO Table (8’ with 2 chairs) Members $125, Non-Members $150
ADDITIONAL DETAILS CALL 973-748-2000
Reserve Today! Thank you for your kind consideration!
GODIVA — Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr., second from left, congratulates Sarah Ann James, center, from Belleville and her pet Lady Godiva for winning first place in the cutest costume category at the Essex County Strut Your Mutt Costume Parade and Contest at Branch Brook Dog Park in Newark on Saturday, Oct. 18. Lady Godiva was dressed as a princess. Presenting the awards with the County Executive are, from left, Deputy Parks Director Kate Hartwyk, Newark North Ward Councilman Anibal Ramos and Newark At-Large Councilman Luis Quintana. The Branch Brook Park Strut Your Mutt Parade was sponsored by Essex County Parks Department and the Anibal Ramos Civic Association.
LADY
FIRST TEE FUN — Belleville Police Department officers recently hit the links with kids from the First Tee Program at Hendricks Golf Course. The First Tee is a youth development program that uses the game of golf to teach life skills, confidence, and values like integrity, respect, and perseverance. The program is about more than just learning to swing a club — it’s about building character both on and off the course, according to BPD.
Photo Courtesy BPD
Belleville to open Food Truck Park on Washington Avenue
BELLEVILLE — Town officials are planning to transform a small space on Washington Avenue into a unique dining destination for foodies with an appetite for fun and food.
The Belleville Food Truck Park will tap America’s newfound love affair with food trucks that serve everything from smash burgers to fusion Asian dishes to specialty cupcakes and many other delights, according to a press release from the township.
Two trucks will stay for 30 days at a time at the park, which will invite diners in through a large open entryway.
After a month, two new trucks will occupy the space that will also include various sitting areas, ranging from picnic tables to lounge chairs.
The township is renovating the property at 128 Washington Ave., which it received at no cost via a state grant.
The Belleville Food Truck Park will also include cornhole games, artificial grass and gates that will unfold from
behind two columns to close off the park during off hours. The park may also include wifi, the release said.
Mayor Michael Melham said he’s hoping Belleville Food Truck Park will be ready to open in November.
“When it came to this space on Washington Avenue, we’ve taken a decidedly out-of-the-box approach,” Melham said. “It was too small for municipal parking, so we are transforming it into something we think the residents and families will not only find to be a fun experience, but the food will be delicious, too.”
Township Manager Brian Banda said the monthly rent for food truck owners will be $500, and they must commit to opening their trucks at least three or four days a week.
He added the park will be open to the public, not just for those purchasing food. Also, the local businesses and residents should benefit from the space being activated.
Publisher: David Worrall
Editor: Joe Ungaro
Advertising Manager: Joseph Farina
Photo Courtesy Belleville Twp.
An artist’s rendering of the Belleville Food Truck Park
CELEBRATING THE ROSARY —Rosarians and their guests gathered at the Chandelier in early October for the annual St. Peter Confraternity of the Holy Rosary Communion Breakfast. After being welcomed by Rosarian President Patricia Sauchelli and enjoying breakfast, they listened to a keynote speech about the life and teachings of Pope Leo XIV. It was delivered by St. Peter’s pastor and rosarian moderator, the Rev. Ivan Sciberras, and is
the parish’s social media.
Photos Courtesy of St. Peter’s church
JUBILEE YEAR PILGRIMAGE — A busload of St. Peter parishioners from Belleville took part in a pilgrimage to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., in October. After being welcomed at the steps by the Archbishop of Newark, Cardinal Joseph, W. Tobin, and touring the majestic Basilica, they took part in a standing-room only Mass, filled with pilgrims from throughout the Archdiocese of Newark.
Welcome To La Sicilia Ristorante and Pizzeria
Photo Courtesy St. Peter’s Church
out gifts and prizes.
Photos Courtesy BPD
OPEN HOUSE — The Belleville Police Department’s Community Policing Unit took part in the Belleville Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Open House earlier this month. The officers engaged wih local families, had a roulette like Wheel of Fun and handed
SBARRA CHIROPRACTIC
260 Park Avenue
Nutley 973-662-0006
COMMISSIONER
TOM EVANS
Salutes Our Veterans
STATE FARM INSURANCE
Renee Friscia, Agent
Providing Insurance and Financial Services
146 Franklin Avenue
Nutley
O: 973-667-6600
F: 973-667-0642
renee@nutleyinsurance.com
COMMISSIONER
JOSEPH SCARPELLI
Salutes Our Veterans
COMMISSIONER
MAURO TUCCI
Salutes Our Veterans
WALT SMITH
EMPLOYEE BENEFIT
CONSULTANT
We can help with your Medicare planning
568 Prospect Street
Nutley 973-931-2686
COMMISSIONER
ALPHONSE PETRACCO
Salutes Our Veterans
NUTLEY MAYOR
JOHN KELLY
Salutes Our Veterans
NATIONAL SPORTSWEAR
368 Cortlandt Street
Belleville 973-759-2005
www.njsportswear.com
D & L AUTOMOTIVE
251 Washington Avenue
Nutley 973-667-4688
dandlautomotivenj.com
NUTLEY KIA
66 Washington Avenue
Nutley 973-447-4739 www.nutleykia.net
FRANKIE’S CAR WASH
727 Belleville Avenue Belleville 973-759-5959
frankiescarwash.com
Salutes Our Veterans
PROPONENT
FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
433 Kingsland Street 173 Bloomfield Avenue
Nutley 800-457-8058
ZIPPOS
745 Washington Avenue Belleville 973-759-6800 zippos.com
BELLEVILLE MAYOR
MICHAEL MELHAM
Salutes Our Veterans
SANDY LANE
NURSERY SCHOOL 634 Mill Street
Belleville 973-751-6380
S. W. BROWN & SON
FUNERAL HOME
John F. Brown, Mgr
NJ Lic No. 2633
267 Centre Street
Nutley 973-667-0875 www.swbrownandson.com
GREGORY PEREZ, D.M.D.
230 Centre Street Nutley 973-667-1095
NUTLEY JOURNAL
BELLEVILLE POST 1291 Stuyvesant Avenue Union 908-686-7700
EssexNewsDaily.com
Courtesy St. Peter’s Church TRICOLORI DOMINATE AT PASTA NIGHT — The colors of the Italian flag were predominant at the St. Peter School Pasta Night – held early in the month of October - during which Italian culture was recognized and celebrated. "Tricolori Dominate" refers to an overwhelming victory by Italy or an Italian team in a sporting or competitive context. The term combines the Italian word for their national colors with the English word for victory.
A Child’s World –
Photos
healthy living
What every woman should know about sexual health at every age
A woman’s sexual and reproductive health needs evolve throughout her life. What’s important at age 25 may look very different at 55. But are women talking about their experiences?
Mayne Pharma is committed to breaking stigmas and unabashedly encourages informed conversations. This framework guides women as they discuss and seek to understand their sexual and reproductive health needs throughout their lives.
20s and 30s: Building the Foundation: In these years, women should explore various contraception options and find the right fit for their lifestyle and family planning needs. Today’s methods offer safe and effective choices, including both short-term and long-acting birth control solutions. A dialogue with one’s healthcare provider can help women better understand the benefits of each option available.
Women should prioritize preventive care by performing breast self-examinations at home and by making regular visits with their primary care physician and gynecologist for screenings and further education. Open communication with healthcare providers is essential for addressing sexual health issues, and to
tai-
lor treatments (if needed) that best fit a woman’s health and lifestyle goals.
40s: Recognizing Change: For most women, their 40s is when they begin experiencing hormonal shifts due to the onset of perimenopause. Symptoms of perimenopause are wide-ranging and can include everything from irregular periods and low libido to changes in mood and even muscle and joint pain. Women should discuss their symptoms with their healthcare providers to understand what medical and non-medical interventions are best for them to help manage symptoms.
Despite the onset of perimenopause during this time, women must remain
SBARRA CHIROPRACTIC
Dr. Samuel Sbarra will be retiring from his practice (SBARRA Chiropractic) as of December 31, 2025.
The patient files will be in the custody of Dr. Albin Paul. Dr. Paul can be reached at 973–897-6969. It has been a great pleasure providing for your health care needs over the past 39 years.
Thank you
If you should have any questions, my contact number is 973-393-2609
Yours in Health
Dr. Samuel Sbarra
We Accept Medicare
proactive about their reproductive health as they are fertile until menopause and may become pregnant. They should also continue with all recommended screenings, including mammograms.
50s and Beyond: Navigating Menopause and Post-Menopausal Health: The average age of menopause in the United States, according to the National Institute on Aging, is 52. This stage often brings noticeable changes, such as hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and shifts in mood or sexual comfort that can affect daily life and overall well-being. Another common symptom of menopause is vulvar and vaginal atrophy, which can cause pain during sex and vaginal discomfort. While these changes are a natural part of aging, they don’t need to be ignored or endured in silence- women should openly discuss these symptoms with their healthcare providers.
Fortunately, safe and effective treatment options exist that address menopause symptoms while treating their underlying causes, providing lasting relief. From hormone therapy and nonhormonal medications to simple lifestyle adjustments, women have more tools than ever to support their comfort and
health. Talking openly with a healthcare provider is the best way to identify the right path forward to ensure individual needs are met.
Women’s sexual health and aging is much more than symptom management. Maintaining bone strength, supporting cardiovascular health, and staying active can all help women feel strong and vibrant in their post menopause years. With the right care and resources, menopause can be seen as a new phase-of-life, one that emphasizes confidence, comfort and overall well-being.
For more than 40 years, Mayne Pharma has been dedicated to bringing patients new and trusted medicines that are safe, effective, and easier to access, and to supporting women at different stages of life with treatment options that meet their evolving needs. For more information, visit www.maynepharma.com.
Women should not feel alone managing their changing bodies. By speaking openly with their healthcare providers about contraception, hormones and reproductive health, women have a partner to support their well-being through every age and stage of life.
– StatePoint
Photo Courtesy of Drazen Zigic / iStock via Getty Images Plus
STUDENT NEWS
SHP’s Ariza now playing soccer at Muhlenberg
A graduate of Seton Hall Preparatory School, Daniel Ariza of Belleville was named a forward on the NCAA Division III men's soccer team at Muhlenberg College for fall 2025, while studying at the college.
Belleville students on Dean’s List at Univ. of Maryland
Liliam Pasuizaca and Ethan Soparkar, both of Belleville, were named to the Dean’s List for the summer term at the University of Maryland Global Campus. To be eligible for the honor, a student must complete at least six credits during the term, earned a grade point average of at least 3.5 for the term, and maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.5 at UMGC.
IN MEMORIAM
• CLAR – Steven Stefanik, of Ft. Meyers, Fla., formerly of Nutley; Oct. 2. U.S. Navy veteran. Nutley Fire Department chief. Widower, great-grandfather, 96.
• GERARDO – Robert Alan, of Nutley; Sept. 26. Retired Newark police sergeant. Was 81.
• O’CONNELL – Maria, of Belleville, formerly of Bloomfield; Oct. 15. Worked in the restaurant industry for many years. Was 66.
• RAUTH – Suzanne, of Monroe Township, formerly of the Bronx, N.Y., and Belleville; Sept. 3. Director of IT. Mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, 69.
• VASILIADIS – Elefherios “Terry,” of New Orleans, La., formerly of Nutley and Jupiter, Fla.; June 8. Automotive sales. Brother, uncle, cousin.
In Memoriam is a weekly feature compiled by the news staff from various sources. We also provide the opportunity for families and funeral directors to publish a more extensive, special notice about their loved one called an obituary. These notices are published on our website immediately and then in the next edition of this newspaper. To place a paid obituary send an email to obits@thelocalsource.com or fax to 908-688-0401. Family and friends’ submissions must include sender’s name, address, phone and the name of the funeral home. Call 908-686-7850 for assistance.
REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE
How to make the exterior of your home turn heads
As your home’s exterior in need of a facelift? While an all-siding exterior can be attractive, using manufactured stone to complement vinyl siding will turn heads, for ultimate curb appeal.
Manufactured stone veneer adds elegance and charm to a home’s exterior, calling to mind rustic country cottages and stately manors. When paired with vinyl siding, it offers a dramatic, earthy variation in texture that makes any style or color stand out.
Sourcing your materials from the right manufacturer will make all the difference. For example, ProVia artfully crafts its manufactured stone to replicate the rugged textures, shadow lines, and coloring of authentic quarried stone.
Created by experienced stone masons who cut and chisel individual stones by hand, they replicate the look of real stone from unique geographic regions, reproducing undercuts, subtle textures and natural hues.
With many stone profiles, grout colors, and other options to select among, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by choice. As you explore your options, keep in mind that
experts have identified these stone profiles as pairing especially well with siding:
• Ledgestone, with its haphazard shapes, jagged contours and scraggy surfaces
• Dry Stack, with its compact, tightly layered profile and sandblasted visage
• Terra Cut, a coarse-grained blend of large and small slabs with rugged faces
• Natural Cut, characterized by irregu-
lar and disproportionate slabs and roughcast veneers
Vinyl Siding Options: Nothing transforms a home’s curb appeal as dramatically as vinyl siding. Quality siding elevates your home’s exterior while protecting it from the elements. From warm neutrals to bold and vibrant hues, there’s a siding profile and color that suits any architectural style. Here are two eye-catching options that look beautiful alongside manufactured stone:
Shingle and Shake: There are few cladding options as distinctive as cedar shake and shingles, and few with as impressive an architectural history. Vinyl siding modeled after these materials, such as Harbor Mill polypropylene from ProVia, captures the authentic look of traditional sawn and split cedar shakes and shingles that have been featured in American homebuilding since the 1600s. Featuring clean grain lines with varying peaks and valleys, the look may be of traditional wood, but the materials themselves are moisture-resistant, durable and low maintenance.
Board and Batten: The use of board
and batten vertical siding originated hundreds of years ago as a practical solution for covering the spaces between the boards on the exterior of a home or barn. Today, it represents rustic, handmade quality, but its strong vertical lines have modern appeal that can enhance many architectural styles, from popular Craftsman to timeless Victorian.
Blending the look of classic vertical wood with the modern engineering of high-performance super polymer vinyl siding, ProVia board and batten siding offers the best of both worlds, and is commonly paired with manufactured stone to add distinctive accents to exterior areas such as entryways, gables, porches, dormers and build-outs.
For more home exterior tips and to visualize how different materials, colors and styles will look on your home, visit provia.com.
When it comes to choosing your exterior cladding, don’t be afraid to go bold! A blend of manufactured stone and vinyl siding is not only going to offer superior performance, it will elevate your home’s exterior aesthetic.
Yarelys Gonzalez, Alana Padilla, Samirah Eldana, Ori Akhand, Jaslyn Sepulveda, Kim Celi and head coach Robert Kearns.
Nutley is collecting gift cards for holidays
NUTLEY — The Department of Public Affairs and Health along with the Nutley Board of Education will be collecting gift cards to be given to those in need during the holidays.
The township asks that people consider picking up a gift card in the amount of $25 per card at local retailers, including Target, Shoprite, Kohl’s and Amazon, to donate to families in need.
These gift card donations are given directly to Nutley families so they too may enjoy the Christmas holiday, according to a press release from the township.
The cards can be dropped off, or mailed, in a sealed envelope to the Department of Public Affairs and Health, located at 149 Chestnut St., Nutley, NJ 07110.
Please remember to put your own name, address, phone number and e-mail on the outside of the envelope.
All envelopes can be addressed to Sharon Bozza. The township requests that all gift card donations arrive in their office no later than Friday, Dec. 5 so that they have time to get them to families in need.
Photo Courtesy of Belleville High School Athletics
BELLEVILLE TENNIS SENIORS — The seniors on the Belleville High School girls tennis team gather with their coaches, following the team’s victory over University to end the season. From left are assistant coach Joe Pizzi,
Collaboration creates community and that’s where joy is found
By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta Correspondent
The Grove Street Theater, located at 130 Grove St. in Montclair, serves as home to Apricot Sky Productions.
Founded in 2000, Apricot Sky Productions is known for its low-priced, highquality writing and talent. Featuring actors and directors from Nutley, Maplewood, Orange, and South Orange, they are celebrating 25 years in production.
Eric Alter, playwright and producer from Livingston, started Apricot Sky Productions in 2000 as a way to get people to come see his writing.
“It’s a blessing,” he said. “I am the head of the company, but at the same time I’m also the producer and doing a lot of stuff on my own. The creative control is great.”
Alter’s first show was in April of 2000; an evening of one-act plays. “It was very well received,” he said. “I didn’t know anything about theater back then. Somebody came to the show and said, ‘You have to take this show to New York City.’”
He ended up bringing the 60-minute piece about dating and relationships to the New York Comedy Club right before Sept 11, 2001.
“I thought maybe I could be decent at this,” he said.
It’s been a great journey for Alter. He wrote a TV pilot that is now on Tubi. He has something in the works for a feature film down the road. And his top goal is to go to a movie he has written.
Alter is mostly self-taught.
“I did take a couple playwriting classes in New Jersey,” Alter said. “The way I learned was reading other people’s scripts and going to people’s shows.”
As a kid, Alter was more into film, but what he’s grown to love about theater is that there’s a greater sense of community.
“Everybody works together,” he said. “Everybody succeeds. It’s live. You can’t do reshoots and retakes.”
Allen Roberts of Maplewood, Mead Winters of Nutley, Donna Fraissinet of Nutley, and John Fraissinet of Nutley have all worked at Apricot Sky over the years. They have strong, positive emotions about Apricot Sky—and theater in general.
Roberts played Dr. Winters in the play “Shrinks.”
“The theater’s a place where I can be
myself—and others—with talented, often younger, fellow/sister actors and directors in a collaborative effort to entertain folks by bringing a playwright’s vision to life, or at least acting like I am,” Roberts said.
Mead Winters directed “1000 Dinners” for the company.
“Theater is a means of expressing a form of storytelling that enables people’s emotions and experiences to encompass a message that resonates to some degree to make us think about our own lives,” Winters said. “The play, ‘1000 Dinners’ is a beautiful story between a father and daughter and how the trials and tribulations of life bring us closer together when, despite our own challenges, we can look at the beauty in others knowing how much they have done for us so we can comfort
them and continue to show them our unconditional love.”
Donna Fraissint directed “In Reverse Order.”
“Theater means collaboration, which means community, and that’s where the joy is,” Fraissint said.
John Fraissinet, Donna’s husband, directed “The Break-Up King.” He said, “Theater is not only a creative outlet it’s a way to meet others and work on shared goals in a unique way.”
As a place of collaboration, Alter says, “There are no small parts because each person is integral to every production. I am incredibly proud of everyone on this show; they make it all worthwhile.”
To learn more about Apricot Sky visit: https://apricotskyproductions.com/
Donna Fraissinet
John Fraissinet
Mead Winters
Bucs complete perfect regular season!
Belleville High School football team clinches first place in SFC–Ivy White Division
The Belleville High School football team completed a perfect regular season with a 40-21 win at Kearny on Friday, Oct. 17. The win raised the Buccaneers’ record to 7-0 overall.
The Bucs, under head coach Brian Antab, clinched first place in the Super Football Conference–Ivy White Division with a 6-0 record. Unfortunately, they lost to Ridgefield Park 19-14 in the Ivy division semifinals on Oct. 23 at home. Ridgefield Park, which finished in second place in the Ivy Red Division, moved to 6-2 overall with its fifth win in a row.
It was not immediately determined whether the Bucs were going to play another game to finish the season.
In the win over Kearny, senior quarterback Jordan Armstrong completed 12 of 18 passes for 204 yards and three touchdowns and also ran for a 2-yard TD to cap the scoring in the fourth quarter.
Armstrong threw TD passes to senior Jalien Sharpe for 27 yards and 30 yards,
both in the first quarter, and threw a 27yard scoring pass to senior Jaden Westfield in the third quarter.
Junior Jashiah O’Uhuru rushed for 104 yards on 15 carries, including a 13yard touchdown in the fourth quarter.
In 2023, the Bucs went winless. The following season, they were placed in the Ivy White Division. The two Ivy divisions are not eligible for the state sectional playoffs.
The Bucs finished 5-4 last season, winning four of their final five games.
2025 Belleville results
• Sept. 5: win, vs. Ferris, 40-0
• Sept. 11: win, at North Bergen, 45-20
• Sept. 19: win, vs. Demarest, 27-26
• Sept. 26: win, vs. Cliffside Park, 36-0
• Oct. 3: win, at Dickinson, 16-6
• Oct. 10: win, vs. Memorial, 30-13
• Oct. 17: win, at Kearny, 40-21
• Oct. 23: loss, vs. Ridgefield Park, 19-14
At left, Belleville senior quarterback Jordan Armstrong looks to pass during warmups and, above, senior Jaden Westfield, No. 6, holds the ball in the end zone against a Kearny defender. Additional photos can be found at www.EssexNews Daily.com.
Photos Courtesy of Elijah Nunez/Belleville High School
Above, Belleville players celebrate and, below, senior Jayden McDaniel carries the ball as junior Jadiere Rivera-Hampton, No. 14, follows during action this season.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
To place your free listing, send information to the editor at essexcty@thelocalsource.com or at 1291 Stuyvesant Ave., Union, NJ 07083. Faxes may be sent to 908-686-0401.
COMEDY
THE FLIP SIDE PERFORMS on Nov. 1 at 8 p.m. at the Madison Community Arts Center. The show is 90 minutes long with no intermission — comedy from start to finish, 10 Kings Road, Madison, tickets are $23, and $18 for students 25 and younger. To purchase advance tickets, go to Vivid Stage's website, www.vividstage.org., or call 908-514-9654.
ROMESH RANGANATHAN BRINGS HIS HILARIOUS HUSTLE TOUR TO NJPAC on Tuesday, Nov. 4, at 8 p.m., at Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. www.njpac.org.
SLOPPY BOYS PODCAST WILL SHAKE UP NJPAC WITH LIVE SHOW on Tuesday, Nov. 4, at 8 p.m., at Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets start at $46 at www.njpac.org.
TOM PAPA, ONE OF AMERICA'S TOP COMEDIANS, returns to NJPAC on Friday, Nov. 7, at 8 p.m., at Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, One Center Street, Newark. Tickets start at $43.50 at www.njpac.org.
AARON CHEN BRINGS COMEDY TO NJPAC on Friday, Nov. 14, at 8 p.m., Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Jonathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets available at www.njpac.org.
COMEDIAN BEN SCHWARTZ & FRIENDS TO PERFORM AT NJPAC on Saturday, Nov. 22, at 7 p.m., at Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets start at $43.50 at www.njpac.org.
DANCE
NIMBUS DANCE: JERSEY NUTCRACKER on Friday, Dec. 12 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 13 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at NJPAC, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets at njpac.org or 888-466-5722.
LECTURES
NEIL DEGRASSE TYSON: AN ASTROPHYSICIST GOES TO THE MOVIES PART II. Tyson will delve into a scientific analysis of iconic films such as “Harry Potter,” “The Wizard of Oz,” “Mary Poppins” and “2001: A Space Odyssey” on Sunday, Nov. 30, at 3 p.m., at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $49.50 to $103.50 at www.njpac.org.
BRYCE CRAWFORD ~ I LOVE JESUS U.S. TOUR STOPS AT NJPAC on Friday, March 13 at 7 p.m., Victoria Theater Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets at www.njpac.org.
MUSIC
SETH RUDETSKY and JESSIE MUELLER BRING ONE-NIGHT-ONLY BROADWAY CONCERT TO NJPAC. Mueller will perform songs from
“Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” and more on Saturday, Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m., Victoria Theater Lizzie & Johnathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets at www.njpac.org.
BSTREETBAND Brings the Spirit of Springsteen to Drew Concert Hall, 36 Madison Ave. in Madison, on Nov. 1 at 8 p.m. Tickets are on sale now at gdpresents.simpletix.com or by calling 917-567-5842.
PLAYBACK AND GHAZAL SINGER HARIHARAN LIVE IN CONCERT at The New Jersey Performing Arts Center on Sat. Nov. 1, at 8 p.m. Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets at www.njpac.org.
THE SZABO CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY will present a concert featuring nationally known musicians, Cathy Yang, violin, Nemanja Adamovic, viola, Andrew Janss, Kevin Brown, bass cello and Sándor Szabó, piano. They will perform Piano Quartet in g minor by Mozart on Saturday, Nov. 8, at 8 p.m., at Union Congregational Church, 176 Cooper Ave., Montclair. Tickets: Adults $25, Seniors $20 and Students $5.
NJPAC PRESENTS THE BLUES IS ALRIGHT FALL 2025 TOUR WITH KING GEORGE, TUCKA, POKEY BEAR, WEST LOVE, LENNY WILLIAMS AND THEODIS EALEY on Tuesday, Nov. 11, at 7 p.m., at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets start at $75 at www.njpac.org.
JOHN FOGERTY, FOUNDER OF CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVIVAL, CELEBRATES HIS 50 YEAR CAREER at NJPAC on Wednesday, Nov. 12, at 7:30 p.m., Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets at www.njpac.org
EMILY GROVE'S JONI JAM-TRIBUTE TO JONI MITCHELL on Friday, Nov. 14, at 8 p.m., at First Congregational Church, 43 So. Fullerton, Montclair. Tickets are $40 at outpostintheburbs.thundertix.com/events.
SABBRA CADABRA & DEATH METALLIC perform “A Farewell Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne” on Nov. 14, at 8 p.m., UCPACs Main Stage, 1601 Irving St., Rahway. Tickets available at ucpac.vbotickets.com.
THE BLUES IS ALRIGHT TOUR COMES TO NJPAC featuring King George, Tucka, Pokey Bear, West Love, Lenny Williams, and Theodis Ealey on Saturday, Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets Start at $75 at NJPAC.
THE HOT SARDINES perform on Sunday, Nov. 16, at 7:30 p.m., at South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange. For tickets, call the SOPAC Box Office at 973-313-2787. Tickets start at $40.
CARLOS VARELA, with special guest DIANA FUENTES, on Friday, Nov. 21, at 7:30 p.m., at NJPAC, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are at www.njpac.org.
THE MAGIC OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON WITH THE TRISHA YEARWOOD on Friday, Dec. 12, at 8 p.m., at NJPAC, Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, 1 Center St.Newark. Tickets start at $39.50 at www.njpac.org.
SIXPENCE NONE THE RICHER on Dec. 20 at 7:30 p.m. at the South Orange Performing Arts Center, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange. For tickets, call the SOPAC Box Office at 973-3132787.
JOHN PIZZARELLI, SWINGING INTO THE HOLIDAYS, AND MORE on Sunday, Dec. 21 at 7:30 p.m. SOPAC, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange. For tickets, call the SOPAC Box Office at 973-313-2787.
BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA PERFORM on Sunday, Dec 21, at 3 p.m., at NJPAC, Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Jonathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets start at $69 at www.njpac.org.
GET THE LED OUT CAPTURES THE ESSENCE OF THE RECORDED MUSIC OF LED ZEPPELIN AND BRINGS IT TO NJPAC on Friday, Jan. 9, at 8 p.m., Prudential Hall, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets at www.njpac.org.
GRAMMY WINNER AVERY SUNSHINE SET TO PERFORM AT New Jersey Performing Arts Center on Friday, Jan.16, at 8 p.m. Victoria Theater, Lizzie & Jonathan Tisch Stage, 1 Center St., Newark. Tickets are $49.50 and $59.50 and available at www.njpac.org,
Photo Courtesy NJPAC
Neil deGrasse Tyson
